Glam Aintree guests pull out all the stops at the Grand National Festival with eye-popping dresses & towering stilettos
ONE of the most elite dates in the racing calendar is back and Aintree guests have certainly pulled out all stops with their fashion looks.
Revellers arrived for day one of the Grand National Festival today and have been aiming to stand out from the crowd with their bold ensembles.
Around 150,000 people are expected at the racing bonanza over the three-day festival, with the iconic Grand National taking place on Saturday.
Today guests have kicked off the celebrations at the Merseyside racecourse with cut-out dresses and daring stilettos.
Many appeared in high spirits for the exhilarating day, posing for photos and sipping champagne in the sun.
While Cheltenham attendees often prefer tweed-themed outfits, Aintree tends to attract bold fashion, with guests encouraged to dress “to feel your best.”
And unlike Royal Ascot, the dress cost is less strict.
Attendees can even wear fancy dress, as long as it isn’t deemed to be offensive.
The website states: “At Aintree Racecourse we believe racing should be enjoyed by anyone and everyone.
“And one thing is certainly true, the more relaxed and comfortable we feel, the more likely we are to have a great time.
“So that’s why we’ve created one very simple piece of guidance, to come ‘dressed to feel your best.
“We’re all unique, and no more so than in our sense of style and comfort.
“For some, wearing a nice sweatshirt, pair of jeans and clean trainers is what makes them feel confident and at-ease.
“For others, they might prefer to turn heads with a sharp suit or glamorous dress and high heels, particularly for one of our big race meetings.
“But whatever your tastes, the most important thing when choosing your outfit is, of course, comfort and confidence.
Best new customer deals for Aintree – click HERE
“So wear what feels right for you and will keep you feeling your best from start to finish, whatever the weather.”
The Grand National, which will kick off at 4pm on Saturday afternoon, remains arguably the biggest horse race in the world.
What is banned at Aintree when it comes to fashion?
Fancy dress is also encouraged, but the racecourse adds: “please avoid inappropriate or offensive outfits, as anything deemed vulgar or derogatory may be refused entry.”
The event, which traditionally features 40 horses, has been running since 1839 and around a third of the UK is expected to put at least one bet on this year’s race.
Last year’s winner was Corach Rambler, who took home the huge £1million prize.
In 2021 Rachael Blackmore became the first-ever female jockey to win the Grand National.